Yes, Planet Fitness is worth it in 2025 for beginners, casual gym-goers, and budget-conscious members. With memberships starting at just $10–$15 a month, plus a $25/month Black Card® option offering nationwide access and perks, Planet Fitness continues to dominate as one of the most affordable gym chains in the U.S. and beyond.
But the reality is more nuanced. While thousands of users love the clean facilities, friendly staff, and judgment-free atmosphere, others complain about overcrowding, limited heavy-lifting equipment, or confusing cancellation policies.
This in-depth review compiles real user feedback from Trustpilot, Reddit, Yelp, TrustIndex, and ConsumerAffairs—alongside expert commentary from fitness media. By the end, you’ll know whether Planet Fitness is the right choice for your fitness goals in 2025.
The Planet Fitness Model in 2025
Planet Fitness has built its brand around a “Judgement-Free Zone®”—a gym culture that appeals to beginners and those who may feel intimidated by traditional fitness clubs.
- Number of clubs: Over 2,700 worldwide, with plans to expand to 5,000 in the U.S.
- CEO: Colleen Keating (appointed April 2024).
- Philosophy: Accessible, affordable fitness for everyone, especially new exercisers.
Unlike high-end gyms that market luxury, Planet Fitness focuses on simplicity, affordability, and scale.
Membership Options & Costs in 2025
Planet Fitness keeps pricing straightforward.
1. Classic Membership
- Price: $10–$15/month
- Access: Home club only
- Includes: Unlimited cardio & strength machines, free Wi-Fi, locker room access
2. PF Black Card® Membership
- Price: ~$25/month
- Access: All 2,700+ locations globally
- Perks:
- Bring a guest every visit
- Massage chairs & HydroMassage beds
- Tanning beds
- Discounts on drinks and merchandise
- Access to partner gyms (varies by location)
Note: Both memberships often include startup fees ($1–$49) and an annual fee (~$39), though promotions may waive some charges.
According to BarBend, the Black Card® is the best value for anyone who travels, wants perks, or enjoys flexibility.
What Real Users Say: Reviews & Experiences
Trustpilot (61,000+ Reviews, 4.2/5 Rating)
Pros mentioned:
- “Super clean facilities”
- “Friendly, helpful staff”
- “Affordable and convenient”
- “Love the 24/7 access”
Cons mentioned:
- “Cancellation is a nightmare”
- “Still got charged after canceling”
- “Bathrooms sometimes dirty”
- “Overcrowded during peak hours”
Example review:
“Planet Fitness is great for beginners. Affordable, plenty of cardio equipment, and staff are nice. But canceling was a hassle—they make it harder than it should be.” – Trustpilot
TrustIndex (2025 – Hicksville Location Example)
Positive feedback:
- “Always a positive experience… Since the management change, the facility runs perfectly, always clean, organized and well stocked.”
Constructive feedback:
- “Renovations made the gym feel cluttered—fewer cable attachments and cramped layout.”
This highlights a recurring theme: experience varies by location.
Reddit Insights (r/PlanetFitnessMembers)
Redditors are candid:
Why they like PF:
- Price is unbeatable: “I go 20 times a month and only pay $10—it’s a crazy good deal.”
- Good for consistency: “Even if you’re not a bodybuilder, it keeps you moving.”
- Judgment-free: “No one cares how you look or what you lift.”
Complaints:
- Dumbbells capped at 75 lbs
- No squat racks or Olympic benches
- Lunk alarm seen as “silly” by some
One Reddit user summed it up:
“Planet Fitness is a value-oriented gym. It’s mostly for people looking to improve fitness, not bodybuilding.”
Yelp Location Reviews
- Los Angeles, CA: Staff praised, but restrooms “dirty and understocked.”
- East Providence, RI: “Perfect for newcomers—just being around equipment is motivating.”
- Buford, GA: “Big space, lots of cardio, but lacking in upper-body equipment.”
Again, local management makes or breaks the experience.
ConsumerAffairs (Verified Reviews)
- “Super clean and well-arranged”
- “Crazy cheap with all the amenities”
- “I was pleasantly surprised—it’s more than I expected for $10.”
Pros & Cons of Planet Fitness in 2025
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Cheapest major gym membership ($10–$25/month) | No squat racks or Olympic barbells |
| Beginner-friendly “Judgement-Free Zone®” | Dumbbells capped at 75 lbs |
| Clean facilities (in most locations) | Quality inconsistent across franchises |
| Black Card perks: guests, massage, tanning | Cancellation process is outdated & frustrating |
| 24/7 access at most gyms | No luxury amenities like sauna or pool |
| Nationwide/global access | Overcrowded at peak hours |
Who Planet Fitness Is Best For
Planet Fitness is ideal for:
- Beginners: Low intimidation, plenty of cardio, basic resistance machines.
- Casual gym-goers: Want to stay fit without heavy training.
- Travelers: Black Card gives access across states.
- Budget-conscious: Few gyms can beat $10/month.
- People who prefer off-hours workouts: 24/7 access helps night owls.
Who Should Skip Planet Fitness
Planet Fitness may not be right if you are:
- A serious bodybuilder or powerlifter needing squat racks, Olympic bars, or heavy dumbbells.
- Looking for luxury amenities like saunas, pools, or group fitness variety.
- Frustrated by admin issues—cancellation policies remain outdated.
- Expecting consistent quality—franchises differ.
Planet Fitness vs Other Gyms in 2025
| Feature | Planet Fitness | LA Fitness | 24 Hour Fitness | Life Time |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price | $10–$25 | $35–$50 | $40–$60 | $80–$150 |
| Free Weights | ❌ (up to 75 lbs) | ✅ Full racks | ✅ Full racks | ✅ Full racks |
| Luxury Amenities | ❌ None | Limited | Some | ✅ Spa, sauna, pool |
| Beginner Friendly | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ❌ (geared to advanced) |
| 24/7 Access | Most | Some | Many | Few |
| Nationwide Access | Black Card | Limited | Limited | Yes |
Expert Opinions
- BarBend: “Great for beginners and travelers, but not for advanced lifters.”
- Popsugar: “Budget-friendly and a cure for ‘gymtimidation,’ but no luxury perks.”
- Investopedia: Called the “Walmart of gyms,” praised for financial resilience and growth potential.
FAQs About Planet Fitness (2025)
1. Is Planet Fitness really $10/month?
Yes, but expect annual and startup fees. Some locations charge $15.
2. Does Planet Fitness have showers?
Yes. Every club has showers, but towels are not provided.
3. Can I cancel online?
Officially, no. Cancellations must be in person or by mail—though a few locations allow online, it’s inconsistent.
4. Is the PF Black Card worth it?
Yes, if you travel, want massage/tanning perks, or like to bring guests.
5. Can I build muscle at Planet Fitness?
Yes, to a point. Machines, smith racks, and light dumbbells are fine for beginners. But advanced lifters will find it limiting.
6. Does Planet Fitness have a sauna?
No. PF does not offer saunas, pools, or steam rooms.
7. Is it good for weight loss?
Yes—if combined with proper nutrition. PF offers cardio, resistance machines, and classes suited for fat loss.
Final Verdict: Is Planet Fitness Worth It in 2025?
Yes—Planet Fitness is worth it for beginners, casual gym-goers, and anyone seeking a clean, affordable, and welcoming gym.
For just $10–$25/month, you get a wide network, 24/7 access, and a judgment-free culture. It’s ideal for building consistency, cardio training, and starting a strength routine.
But if you’re a serious lifter, want luxury amenities, or expect flawless customer service, you may need to look elsewhere.
Bottom line: If your goal is to simply move more, get fit, and do so affordably, Planet Fitness is one of the best choices in 2025.